Luka Modrić to Lead Real Madrid in 2025 FIFA Club World Cup: “It Will Be the Last Dance”

Luka Modrić, the 39-year-old Croatian maestro and Real Madrid’s midfield linchpin, has confirmed he will participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, signaling that it could mark the final chapter of his storied career with the Spanish giants. In a statement brimming with determination, Modrić declared, “It will be the last dance. We will do everything to bring the trophy home,” underscoring his intent to cap his time at Real Madrid with yet another prestigious title. The expanded 32-team tournament, scheduled to take place from June 14 to July 13, 2025, in the United States, represents a significant opportunity for Modrić to add to his glittering trophy cabinet before potentially bidding farewell to the club he has called home since 2012.

A Legendary Career Nearing Its Climax

Modrić’s announcement comes as his contract with Real Madrid is set to expire in June 2025, fueling speculation about his future. Widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner has enjoyed a remarkable tenure at Real Madrid, amassing 24 major trophies, including six UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns. His pivotal role in the club’s success, combined with his enduring quality despite his age, has made him a beloved figure among fans and a cornerstone of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, revamped to include 32 teams from across the globe, will see Real Madrid compete in a highly anticipated group stage alongside Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal, Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami, and Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca. For Modrić, the tournament offers a chance to cement his legacy by helping Real Madrid claim the global title, a fitting finale for a player who has consistently delivered on the biggest stages.

The FIFA Club World Cup: A New Frontier

The 2025 edition of the FIFA Club World Cup marks a significant evolution of the competition, expanding from its previous seven-team format to a more inclusive tournament featuring top clubs from every confederation. Hosted across 12 stadiums in the United States, the event is designed to showcase the best of club football on a global scale. Real Madrid, as Europe’s representative and one of the most decorated clubs in history, enters as a favorite, with Modrić’s experience and leadership expected to play a central role.

Modrić’s commitment to the tournament dispels earlier speculation that he might skip it to focus on his post-Real Madrid career or international duties with Croatia. His decision to participate reflects his unwavering dedication to the club, even as he approaches the twilight of his playing days. “We will do everything to bring the trophy home,” he said, a promise that resonates with Real Madrid’s ethos of relentless pursuit of silverware.

What’s Next for Modrić?

As Modrić prepares for what he calls his “last dance,” questions about his future intensify. With his contract nearing its end, the midfielder has been linked with potential moves to Saudi Arabia, the United States, or Qatar, where lucrative offers await. However, Modrić has also expressed openness to remaining at Real Madrid in a non-playing capacity, potentially as a coach or ambassador, allowing him to stay connected to the club where he has achieved so much.

Recent reports from outlets like Reuters, ESPN, and The Sun suggest that Modrić is weighing his options carefully. While a move to a new league could offer a fresh challenge, his deep bond with Real Madrid—where he has played over 500 matches—makes a transition to a behind-the-scenes role equally plausible. For now, his focus remains on the pitch, with the FIFA Club World Cup representing a final opportunity to etch his name into the club’s history once more.

A Legacy Beyond Trophies

Modrić’s influence extends far beyond his on-field contributions. His professionalism, humility, and work ethic have earned him respect from teammates, opponents, and fans alike. As captain of the Croatian national team, he led his country to the 2018 World Cup final and a third-place finish in 2022, defying expectations for a nation of just four million people. At Real Madrid, his partnership with Toni Kroos and Casemiro in midfield became the stuff of legend, setting the standard for modern football.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will not only be a test of Real Madrid’s dominance but also a celebration of Modrić’s extraordinary career. As he prepares for his “last dance,” the football world will watch closely, eager to see if the Croatian magician can conjure one final moment of brilliance.